Chapter 1: Understanding Kundalini and the Vagus Nerve

Is there a scientific basis for equating the vagus nerve with the Shakti (Kundalini) energy? This enigmatic concept raises compelling questions.

According to ancient practices, an individual must engage in various forms of yoga before awakening their kundalini (Shakti) energy. The term "kundalini" originates from the Sanskrit word "kundal," which translates to “coiled.” When this energy is awakened, it spirals up the spine toward the crown of the head, moving through the energy centers known as chakras.

Interestingly, the vagus nerve travels from the brain to the lower spine, passing through the throat chakra (Vishuddhi), heart chakra (Anahata), solar plexus chakra (Manipura), and sacral chakra (Svadhishthana). This raises the question: could the vagus nerve serve as a pathway for kundalini energy to awaken the mind, body, and spirit?

The parallels between these two systems are striking. For example:

• The vagus nerve comprises two nerves (right and left) but is perceived as one entity.
• The Kundalini serpent is represented by two energy channels (ida and pingala) that spiral along the central spine (sushumna) and converge at the crown of the head.
• The vagus nerve connects the digestive system to the brain, while Kundalini resides in the first chakra at the spine's base, ascending to the pineal gland located in the brain's center.
• Both systems traverse the spinal cord and interact with various organs and glands along the way.

A healthy vagus nerve transmits information from the digestive tract to the brain, while an unhealthy nerve can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Similarly, the Shakti energy center in the navel (Manipura) plays a crucial role in digestion and empowerment.

The similarities between the two systems are indeed remarkable.

The Upper Vagus

Several exercises can be beneficial for this area. Consider trying:

• Gentle massage or rubbing of the face, neck, and scalp.
• Tapping these areas lightly.
• Chanting; two popular options are Aum (Om) and Bhramari Pranayama (the humming bee technique).
• Gargling with liquid.
• Covering the eyes with your palms or a light fabric.

The Middle Vagus

Pranayama, one of the seven forms of yoga, focuses on controlling life-force energy (prana) through breath. There are numerous breathing techniques to explore, from energizing (breath of fire) to calming. This practice, often referred to as vagal toning, enhances lung, diaphragm, and rib cage function.

Explore more with this resource:

5 Effective Breathing Techniques for Everyday Well-Being

The Lower Vagus

Movement, stretching, and various postures significantly stimulate the vagus nerve. Here are some effective poses to try:

• Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
• Cat-Cow (Chakravakasana)
• Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
• Plow Pose (Halasana)
• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
• Shoulder Stand (Salamba Sarvangasana)
• Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
• Reclining Cobbler’s Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)
• Child’s Pose (Balasana)
• Corpse Pose (Savasana)

You can choose any combination of these poses, whether sequentially or in a free-flowing style. The vagus nerve appreciates any form of movement.

“Yoga activates various nerves in the body, particularly the vagus nerve, which carries information from the brain to most major organs, promoting self-regulation and emotional well-being.” — Deepak Chopra

The Moment of Truth

The practices shared here have a rich history, once held as sacred secrets within revered circles in India. Have these techniques been harnessing the extraordinary powers of the vagus nerve all along? The answer is yours to determine.

Regardless of your perspective—scientific or spiritual—what truly matters is nurturing your body to lead a fulfilling, expansive life.